#Boreal Chorus Frog Pseudacris maculata

[lichen-soup-scribe]

tiny amphibians I've seen so far this summer

Woodhouse's toad toadlet (Anaxyrus woodhousii)

Boreal chorus frog (Pseudacris maculata)

[shawsnires]

Boreal chorus frog, Pseudacris maculata

Taken at the MKT trail, Columbia, Missouri.

[speakingofnature]

This tiny Boreal Chorus Frog (Pseudacris maculata), less than an inch in length, made a surprise visit to our gardens recently. They can be heard in the spring, but they are difficult to spot due to their small size. This frog most likely metamorphosed over the past few months and is gradually coming to full size, which will be a little over an inch. It will overwinter under rocks or logs and if a male will emerge to sing its springtime song in March.

[wetlandwanderer]

Boreal Chorus Frog (Pseudacris maculata)

Today’s post is dedicated to the chorus frogs, of which there are many. Due to the amount of different species in the US (12 in total not including Spring Peepers) I decided to split them up based on appearance and similarity of call.

We begin with the Boreal Chorus Frog today as it is the most widespread of the 3 species we’ll discuss. It can be found as far north as the Northwestern Territories in Canada, as far south as New Mexico and North Texas, as far west as Idaho, and as far east as New Hampshire. This range is the main aspect that defines it as it sounds and looks almost identical to 2 other species of chorus frog.

Two of the other more common species of chorus frog are the Western Chorus Frog (Pseudacris triserium) and the Upland Chorus Frog (Pseudacris ferarium). These two species physically have the same tan backs, pale underbellies, and dark streaking that the Boreal Chorus Frog has along with the same distinctive dark eye mask that most chorus frogs possess.

Auditory-wise all three sound identical with a trill similar to the sound of someone pulling back the bristles of a comb. When in groups it can almost sound like bells which often gets them mistaken for Spring Peepers (Pseudacris crucifer). This is why, similar to the situation with cricket frogs, your location at the time of observation is really important when identifying these species.

The Western Chorus Frog, contrary to its name, has the most east range of these species. While it used to be thought to extend well into the lower midwest and some of the Great Plains region, those populations were discovered to actually be Boreal Chorus Frogs. Now this species is known to mostly occupy Michigan, Indiana, and Ohio with some populations in northern Kentucky, eastern Illinois, and western Pennsylvania.

On the other hand the Upland Chorus Frog is found pretty exclusively in the southeastern US extending from west Texas to New Jersey. There is some overlap of course amongst all of these such as southern Indiana and Pennsylvania for crossover between the upland and western species, and southern Missouri for the boreal and upland species, but for the most part location will narrow down which species you’ve found.

[delicatelysublimeforester]

Save The Frogs Day April 29

Northern Leopard Frog compared to frogs around the world. Northern Leopard Frog lower right corner

Rana_sylvatica Wood Frog

Rana_pipiens Northern Leopard Frog

Lithobates_sylvaticus_(wood_frog)

“If we can discover the meaning in the trilling of a frog, perhaps we may understand why it is for us not merely noise but a song of poetry and emotion.” – Adrian Forsyth

In the plains and parkland region of Saskatchewan are several species of frogs which can be found around the wetlands, marshes, rivers, streams, and “prairie potholes.” The number of species observable increase during the cyclical years when Saskatchewan has a higher water table. Saskatchewan, experiences a temperate climate, which cycles between drought and high moisture years. Winnipeg locates at the confluence of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers. During the years when the Red River produces great floods through North Dakota, and Manitoba, those are also years when the water table is high in Saskatchewan and communities of Saskatchewan also experience flooding. Historically, there have been high water levels during the years 2011, 2009, 1997, 1996, 1979, 1974, and 1950.

Saskatchewan species of frogs include; Canadian Toad Anaxyrus hemiophrys, Great Plains Toad Bufo cognatus, Plains Spadefoot Toad Spea bombifrons, Boreal Chorus Frog Pseudacris maculata, Leopard Frog Rana pipiens, Wood Frog Rana sylvatica. Diane Secoy limits the The Plains spadefoot and Great Plains toad to the southwestern corner of Saskatchewan, the area formerly known as “Palliser’s Triangle.”

Biologists study the ecology, life history, osteology, and mating calls of the these amphibians. The evolutionary history is determined by examining the distributions, ecology, cranial osteology, and mating calls. In the field, colouration is noted, along with webbing between fingers, shape of the snout, size, distinctions of thighs, shape of vocal sac, shape of maxillary processes, for instance to determine geographic variations. The tadpoles are also examined for ventral fins, mating calls, colouration, tail, snout, teeth. Frogs do have an olfactory sense, and can sense chemical changes in the air. The presence of amphibians in an ecosystem, is a good indicator of the health of the biome. Tadpoles can use the chemical scents as a method to be aware of predators or food. The particular marsh, or wetlands area where a tadpole was born possesses its own unique perfume or scent, to which the frog is also drawn towards in the final life cycle. At the top of the frog’s mouth is the jacobson’s organ, which is how a frog detects scent. A frog will open and close their mouths to activate their jacobson’s organ in an effort to locate food.

On studying amphibians, not only is it important to reflect upon where are frogs, and toads in winter-time, but also where are frogs and toads in the summer-time during droughty years?

When discovering a Saskatchewan amphibian could you tell a toad from a frog?

Do you know what is the life cycle of a frog (or of a toad) as if related by the creature itself?

So what can you do on “Save The Frogs Day April 29?” The most important thing, would be to Learn about the Frogs of Saskatchewan!

For more information on species at risk or to participate in Stewards of Saskatchewan program offered by Nature Saskatchewan “Humanity in Harmony with Nature” please call 1-800-667-HOOT (1-800-667-4668)

“There were frogs all right, thousands of them. Their voices beat the night, they boomed and barked and croaked and rattled. They sang to the stars, to the waning moon, to the waving grasses. They bellowed long songs and challenges.” – John Steinbeck

BIBLIOGRAPHY: Canadian Biodiversity Species. Amphibians and Reptiles: Frogs and Toads (Anura)

frog smell.

Frogwatch. Saskatchewan. Learn about the Frogs of Saskatchewan!

Secoy, Diane Amphibians Encyclopedia of Saskatchewan. Canadian Plains Research Centre. University of Regina.2006

Species at Risk Public Registry. Northern Leopard Frog Western Boreal / Prairie populations Government of Canada.

Northern Leopard Frog compared to frogs around the world. Northern Leopard Frog lower right corner

Rana_sylvatica Wood Frog

Rana_pipiens Northern Leopard Frog

Lithobates_sylvaticus_(wood_frog)

For more information:

Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area is located in Saskatoon, SK, CA north of Cedar Villa Road, within city limits, in the furthest south west area of the city. Wikimapia Map: type in Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area Google Maps South West Off Leash area location pin at parking lot Web page: https://stbarbebaker.wordpress.com Where is the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area? with map Facebook: StBarbeBaker Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area Facebook: South West OLRA If you wish to support the afforestation area with your donation, write a cheque please to the “Meewasin Valley Authority Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area trust fund” (MVA RSBBAA trust fund) and mail it to Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area c/o Meewasin Valley Authority, 402 Third Ave S, Saskatoon SK S7K 3G5. Thank you kindly! Twitter: St Barbe Baker

Pinterest richardstbarbeb

The Trilling of a Frog Save The Frogs Day April 29 “If we can discover the meaning in the trilling of a frog, perhaps we may understand why it is for us not merely noise but a song of poetry and emotion.” – Adrian Forsyth…

[spontaneousmusicalnumber]

Went out for a walk by the lake on the first truly warm day of the year and the boreal chorus frogs (Pseudacris maculata) were calling in full force!

[Transcript: No voices, some wind sounds as many frogs call. They sound like running your finger across the teeth of a comb.]

[jasonjdking]

Boreal Chorus Frog (Pseudacris maculata) April 18, 2016

[cowgirlontheloose]

For Immediate Release: Perth Senior Enchanted by Local Frogs April 19, 2017 Perth, Ontario

     In a new twist on a creepy German fairytale, a nature-loving senior declares her abiding love for frogs.

     Yesterday, Susan Fisher, 75, was spotted lurking at a local wildlife reserve. The incident took place at approximately noon on Tues., April 18.  Under a warmish spring sun (the first in many days), the gung-ho grandmother explained her actions.

     “Spring hasn’t truly sprung until the frogs start calling,” she stated. 

     When pressed for more details, Ms. Fisher elaborated. “First come the Spring Peepers (Pseudacris crucifer), then the Northern Leopards (Rana pipiens) followed by the Boreal Chorus frogs (Pseudacris maculata).” After devouring a bite of her egg salad sandwich, the sprightly senior added, “Today was the first time this spring I’ve heard all three at the same time.”

     The Reserve is a real haven for many wildlife species, as well as “apartment dwellers like me,” Ms. Fisher enthused. “It’s important for me to spend time in nature every day or I’ll go stark raving coo-coo.” 

     The elderly nature nut said that more frog species -- and also the American Toad (Bufo americanus) -- will soon join the fervent Eastern Ontario ode to spring. “My personal favourites are the toads” she said. “Talk about passionate! They make Romeo and Juliet seem lame by comparison.”

     The Perth Wildlife Reserve is only 10 minutes drive from Perth, an attractive small town in cottage country west of Canada’s capitol. The 257-hectare reserve is part of the Rideau Valley Conservation Authority and is specifically geared to wildlife management.

      It is situated in the Tay Marsh, and according to the website, “...is an area for quiet observations. Take your time and keep your eyes open.”

     One Perth senior at least, plans to keep on doing just that. Welcome to spring!

Frogs of Ontario Calls - YouTube

▶ 1:03

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IGjCt_MLZtY

[delicatelysublimeforester]

Save The Frogs Day April 29

Northern Leopard Frog compared to frogs around the world. Northern Leopard Frog lower right corner

Rana_sylvatica Wood Frog

Rana_pipiens Northern Leopard Frog

Lithobates_sylvaticus_(wood_frog)

“If we can discover the meaning in the trilling of a frog, perhaps we may understand why it is for us not merely noise but a song of poetry and emotion.” – Adrian Forsyth

In the plains and parkland region of Saskatchewan are several species of frogs which can be found around the wetlands, marshes, rivers, streams, and “prairie potholes.” The number of species observable increase during the cyclical years when Saskatchewan has a higher water table. Saskatchewan, experiences a temperate climate, which cycles between drought and high moisture years. Winnipeg locates at the confluence of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers. During the years when the Red River produces great floods through North Dakota, and Manitoba, those are also years when the water table is high in Saskatchewan and communities of Saskatchewan also experience flooding. Historically, there have been high water levels during the years 2011, 2009, 1997, 1996, 1979, 1974, and 1950.

Saskatchewan species of frogs include; Canadian Toad Anaxyrus hemiophrys, Great Plains Toad Bufo cognatus, Plains Spadefoot Toad Spea bombifrons, Boreal Chorus Frog Pseudacris maculata, Leopard Frog Rana pipiens, Wood Frog Rana sylvatica. Diane Secoy limits the The Plains spadefoot and Great Plains toad to the southwestern corner of Saskatchewan, the area formerly known as “Palliser’s Triangle.”

Biologists study the ecology, life history, osteology, and mating calls of the these amphibians. The evolutionary history is determined by examining the distributions, ecology, cranial osteology, and mating calls. In the field, colouration is noted, along with webbing between fingers, shape of the snout, size, distinctions of thighs, shape of vocal sac, shape of maxillary processes, for instance to determine geographic variations. The tadpoles are also examined for ventral fins, mating calls, colouration, tail, snout, teeth. Frogs do have an olfactory sense, and can sense chemical changes in the air. The presence of amphibians in an ecosystem, is a good indicator of the health of the biome. Tadpoles can use the chemical scents as a method to be aware of predators or food. The particular marsh, or wetlands area where a tadpole was born possesses its own unique perfume or scent, to which the frog is also drawn towards in the final life cycle. At the top of the frog’s mouth is the jacobson’s organ, which is how a frog detects scent. A frog will open and close their mouths to activate their jacobson’s organ in an effort to locate food.

On studying amphibians, not only is it important to reflect upon where are frogs, and toads in winter-time, but also where are frogs and toads in the summer-time during droughty years?

When discovering a Saskatchewan amphibian could you tell a toad from a frog?

Do you know what is the life cycle of a frog (or of a toad) as if related by the creature itself?

So what can you do on “Save The Frogs Day April 29?” The most important thing, would be to Learn about the Frogs of Saskatchewan!

For more information on species at risk or to participate in Stewards of Saskatchewan program offered by Nature Saskatchewan “Humanity in Harmony with Nature” please call 1-800-667-HOOT (1-800-667-4668)

“There were frogs all right, thousands of them. Their voices beat the night, they boomed and barked and croaked and rattled. They sang to the stars, to the waning moon, to the waving grasses. They bellowed long songs and challenges.” – John Steinbeck

BIBLIOGRAPHY: Canadian Biodiversity Species. Amphibians and Reptiles: Frogs and Toads (Anura)

frog smell.

Frogwatch. Saskatchewan. Learn about the Frogs of Saskatchewan!

Secoy, Diane Amphibians Encyclopedia of Saskatchewan. Canadian Plains Research Centre. University of Regina.2006

Species at Risk Public Registry. Northern Leopard Frog Western Boreal / Prairie populations Government of Canada.

Northern Leopard Frog compared to frogs around the world. Northern Leopard Frog lower right corner

Rana_sylvatica Wood Frog

Rana_pipiens Northern Leopard Frog

Lithobates_sylvaticus_(wood_frog)

For more information:

Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area is located in Saskatoon, SK, CA north of Cedar Villa Road, within city limits, in the furthest south west area of the city. Wikimapia Map: type in Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area Google Maps South West Off Leash area location pin at parking lot Web page: https://stbarbebaker.wordpress.com Where is the Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area? with map Facebook: StBarbeBaker Facebook group page : Users of the St Barbe Baker Afforestation Area Facebook: South West OLRA If you wish to support the afforestation area with your donation, write a cheque please to the “Meewasin Valley Authority Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area trust fund” (MVA RSBBAA trust fund) and mail it to Richard St. Barbe Baker Afforestation Area c/o Meewasin Valley Authority, 402 Third Ave S, Saskatoon SK S7K 3G5. Thank you kindly! Twitter: St Barbe Baker

Pinterest richardstbarbeb

High or Low Water Table? Save The Frogs Day April 29 “If we can discover the meaning in the trilling of a frog, perhaps we may understand why it is for us not merely noise but a song of poetry and emotion.” – Adrian Forsyth…